Greenville Sex Crime Defense Attorneys

Sexual Exploitation of a Minor 

This felony offense is committed by employing, using, inducing, coercing, encouraging, or facilitating a minor to engage in sexual acts. It also includes creating, possessing, or distributing sexually explicit material involving a child (child pornography). 

Criminal Sexual Conduct with a Minor

This is a felony defined as sexual battery or lewd acts with a person under the age of 16. The degree depends on the use of force or coercion and the age of the victim. First-degree charges apply if the victim was under the age of 11 (or 16 if the offense was committed with a prior conviction).

Prostitution

Prostitution is defined as engaging or offering to engage in sexual activity with or for another in exchange for anything of value. This is generally a misdemeanor offense punishable by fines, jail time, or both. 

How Long Does Sex Offender Registration Last?

South Carolina requires registration for many sex crime convictions. Depending on the offense, registration can last for life and is publicly accessible. Our lawyers work to reduce the impact of these charges by negotiating with prosecutors, challenging unreliable evidence, and presenting a compelling defense at trial if necessary.

What Are the Penalties for a Sex Crime Conviction? 

Sex crimes can not only lead to imprisonment and fines, but also affect your reputation, personal and professional relationships, and ability to secure employment and affordable housing. A conviction can also result in a permanent criminal record and the loss of civil liberties, such as the right to vote or own a firearm. 

You may also be required to register as a sex offender, which can have lifelong consequences. We can work to mitigate the potential impacts of a conviction and pursue the best possible outcome in your case, whether that means negotiating reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or aggressively defending you at trial. 

What Is the Legal Age of Consent for Sexual Activity in South Carolina? 

Minors under the age of 16 cannot legally consent to sexual activity under state law. Engaging in sexual relations with a minor can lead to criminal charges for sexual misconduct or statutory rape, even if the sexual activity was consensual. 

Sex crimes involving minors carry some of the harshest penalties, even for first-time offenders, and mistake of age is not a valid defense.

Consulting a skilled defense lawyer is paramount to protecting your freedom and future. From understanding complex sex crime statutes to addressing collateral consequences like registration and civil restrictions, you can trust our attorneys to provide tireless advocacy every step.

Common Defenses Against Sex Crimes

Some common defense strategies against sex crimes include:

• False allegations. If you were falsely accused due to ulterior motives or mistaken identity, we can help you gather evidence to clear your name. 
• Consent. If the alleged offense involved consensual sex between adults, we can collect witness testimonies and communication records to prove your innocence.
• Procedural errors. If your constitutional rights were violated, we can file a motion to suppress inadmissible evidence or drop the charges altogether. 
• Insufficient evidence. The prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence to convict you, we can fight for a dismissal.

Being accused of a sex crime can be daunting, but you don't have to fight the charges alone. Call (864) 635-6145 to schedule a consultation.